Prevalence of self-perceived halitosis and its associated factors among university students in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

Abstract Background: Self-perceived halitosis is self-awareness of bad breath. In this cross-sectional study, university students in Dhaka, Bangladesh, were examined for self-perceived halitosis and its associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to April 2022 among Dhaka's 6 private and 2 public universities' students. The convenient sampling method selected 318 participants. A self-reported questionnaire was given with informed consent. Analytical statistics were used to examine oral malodor and study variables (Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis). P values under 0.05 and 95% confidence intervals indicated statistical significance (CI). Results: Results showed 55.97% self-perceived halitosis. Female perception rates were 67.42% higher than males (32.58%). Obesity (44.38%), alcohol consumption (16.85%), high stress (17.98%), inadequate sleep (20.79%), lack of exercise (66.29%), unhealthy diet (21.91%), coffee/tea consumption (86.52%), and mouth breathing were associated with self- perceived halitosis (32.58%). Insufficient tooth brushing (39.55%), infrequent toothbrush replacement (38.07% after 6 months, 19.32% after 1 year, 15.91% after >1 year), and non- fluoride toothpaste use (58.52%) were associated with higher self-perceived halitosis rates. Lack of dental floss or toothpicks (72.47% and 71.75%, respectively), sugar-free chewing gum (42.70%), and tongue cleaning (51.12%) also increased self-perceived halitosis. Gum bleeding, swollen gums, dry mouth, dental caries, food accumulation, and occasional tooth sensitivity increased self-perceived halitosis in 24.72%, 25.28%, 32.58%, 34.27& and 46.07% of respondents respectively. Males, non-alcohol drinkers, non-mouth breathers, oral hygiene maintainers, and individuals without gum bleeding had lower odds of self-reported halitosis, according to multivariable logistic regression. Conclusion: In conclusion, University students of Dhaka exhibit a significant prevalence of self-perceive halitosis. It was linked to gender, BMI, lifestyle, oral hygiene, and oral conditions. This study highlights the complexity of self-perceived halitosis and the importance of prevention.